Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is one of the most common causes of chronic pain in pets. While it is not always possible to prevent, there are proactive steps you can take to reduce your pet’s risk, delay its onset, and keep them comfortable well into their senior years.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

One of the most powerful ways to prevent arthritis is through weight management. Excess weight places unnecessary strain on your pet’s joints, accelerating cartilage breakdown and leading to pain earlier in life. Keeping pets lean not only protects their joints but has also been linked to longer lifespans.

Work with your veterinarian to:

  • Determine your pet’s ideal weight.
  • Establish portion-controlled feeding habits.
  • Choose a balanced, high-quality diet.

Exercise that Protects Joints

Activity is important for keeping pets strong and mobile, but the type of exercise matters. Low-impact, consistent activity helps maintain flexibility and strengthens muscles that support the joints. Swimming, controlled leash walks, and underwater treadmill therapy are excellent choices. High-impact activities, such as repetitive jumping or rough play on hard surfaces, should be avoided, especially in growing puppies whose joints are still developing.

Nutrition and Early Support

Diet plays a significant role in joint health. Feeding an age-appropriate formula prevents overly rapid growth in puppies, which can lead to joint problems later in life. For adult pets, prescription diets enriched with omega-3 fatty acids can provide natural anti-inflammatory benefits that support long-term mobility.

Supplements can also be valuable when used preventively.

At The Scottsdale Veterinary Clinic, you’ll find veterinarian-recommended products such as:

  • Cosequin (glucosamine and chondroitin): supports cartilage and protects against breakdown.
  • Duralactin: a natural anti-inflammatory that is gentle on the stomach.
  • Cetyl-M (cetyl myristoleate): shown to improve mobility and reduce pain in dogs with early joint disease.

It is important to consult your veterinarian before starting supplements, as they will determine the right products and dosages for your pet’s individual needs.

Veterinary Wellness Checks

Routine veterinary exams are a key part of arthritis prevention. Twice-yearly checkups for senior pets help detect subtle changes in mobility before arthritis progresses. The Scottsdale Veterinary Clinic emphasizes integrative medicine, combining supplements, nutrition, and therapy to protect joint health and minimize reliance on pain medications.

Your veterinarian may also recommend preventive therapies such as Adequan injections, laser treatments, or physical rehabilitation. Their rehabilitation and physical therapy services can improve flexibility, restore strength, and reduce pain in dogs with arthritis or mobility issues.

Creating a Joint-Friendly Home

Environmental changes can make a big difference in easing strain on joints. Providing an orthopedic bed gives pets proper cushioning, while elevated food and water bowls reduce stress on the neck and back. Ramps or pet stairs allow pets to reach higher places without jumping, and non-slip rugs or mats help prevent falls on slippery floors. These small adjustments add up to better long-term joint health.

Recognizing Early Signs

Being proactive also means paying close attention to subtle signs of discomfort. Pets with early arthritis may move more slowly, hesitate before climbing stairs, or become reluctant to jump onto furniture. Behavioral changes, such as irritability or withdrawal, may also signal pain. Recognizing these signs early allows for faster intervention and more effective prevention.

Considering Genetics

Finally, it’s important to acknowledge that genetics play a role. Some breeds are predisposed to joint issues such as hip or elbow dysplasia. If you are adopting a puppy, working with a responsible breeder who performs orthopedic health screenings can reduce the risk of inherited joint conditions.

Protecting Your Pet’s Joint Health

While arthritis cannot always be avoided, pet owners can significantly reduce its impact by focusing on weight management, joint-friendly exercise, proper nutrition, and preventive veterinary care. Supplements and therapies available at The Scottsdale Veterinary Clinic can further protect mobility and comfort. By taking these steps early, you can help ensure your pet enjoys an active, pain-free life.

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